Fans of the Mercedes-AMG line-up can now look forward to this, the forthcoming AMG GLA 35 4Matic+ and GLA 45 4Matic+ models. The new generation crossover has yet to make its global debut, but the model range will very likely mirror the offerings of the W177 A-Class, complete with three- and four-cylinder engines.

There’s not much to go on about the car’s looks, seeing as the prototype mules are completely wrapped in camouflage vinyl. However, the crossover does appear to look sportier, with sleeker proportions, slimmer headlights and GLE-inspired LED tail lights. Between the GLA 35 and GLA 45, the latter will get the full AMG treatment, which should include aerodynamic parts, huge 20-inch wheels, as well as a raised rear spoiler.

On the performance side of things, the GLA 35 4Matic+ will share the A 35’s M260 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger, producing 306 hp and 400 Nm of torque. In the hatch, that’s good for a 0-100 km/h time of 4.2 seconds. Power is channeled to the wheels via a seven-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission, and we can also expect the AMG Performance 4Matic fully variable all-wheel drive system to be featured here.

Those eyeing the top GLA 45 4Matic+ can look forward to two variants, the regular GLA 45 and GLA 45 S. Both share the same M139 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol, making 387 PS and 480 Nm in base form, and 421 PS and 500 Nm of torque in GLA 45 S guise. An AMG exhaust system with a controllable flap should be available on both versions.

Again, the A 45 completes the century sprint in four seconds, while the A 45 S gets there in 3.9 seconds. The M139, also known as the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine, is mated to an eight-speed 8G dual-clutch transmission, as well as the AMG Performance 4Matic+ fully-variable AWD system.

The latter comes with AMG Torque Control, which is a system comprising two electronically controlled multi-disc clutches found in the rear axle differential. Each are connected to the drive shaft, which allows engine power to be fully distributed between the front and rear wheels, as well as selectively between the left and right rear wheels.

Other features include adaptive dampers, speed-sensitive electro-mechanical power steering system, AMG Dynamic Select system with several drive modes (Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual and Race), AMG sports seats, AMG-specific graphics for the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, as well as AMG Track Pace with telemetry logging.

-paultan